In Yelm, eyes open to needs of God's children

YELM — Emanuel Lutheran Church has hosted weekly a "Giving Thanks" dinner since last November, and since then, the joyful event has attracted about 70 church and community regulars.
"We've had a ball every Tuesday night since," said the Rev. Jerry Collell, who leads the small rural congregation.
"While initiated in the face of a hard winter for the homeless, low-income, and elderly families who we’ve been seeing more of in this tough economy, many have commented that while the food is good and very appreciated, even more important was the fellowship — being able to get out and be with people."
Food comes from local food banks and coops, and creative menus have ranged from buffaloaf, which is buffalo meatloaf, to geoduck chowder to, "Lutherans at their Wurst," which is bratwurst cooked in German beer.
"Emanuel struggles with meeting our bills, like most small congregations. This experience has taught us how God provides abundantly with food and help. We took a leap of faith that many haven’t come down from yet," Pastor Collell said.
He added that congregation members, now having gotten to know their homeless and less fortunate neighbors, see need they didn't see before.
They have taken action.
Half a year since starting the free dinners, they have an emergency shelter at the church. Members help the needy buy bus passes to get to job interviews. They phone estranged family members to let them know their loved one is OK.
"Seeing God at work there spurred us into action. Our name means “God with us” and these dinners have really brought that home," Pastor Collell concluded.